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The Importance Of Controlling The Indoor Humidity Of Your Home

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Why is there a need to control the indoor humidity of your home or building?

Maybe some of you haven’t thought of this matter before. Humidity, after all, is among the least-mentioned issues that come into the mind of homeowners. However, you should not shrug it off. 

Humidity that is too low or too high is bad for your health. It also causes structural damages, which is something that you don’t want if you put a high value on your property. Managing humidity is crucial to ensure the conduciveness of your space and its overall structural integrity over time. 

What Is Humidity?

Humidity is a measure of how much water vapor is in the air. When air is fully saturated with water vapor, its relative humidity is 100%. 

Meanwhile, relative humidity is the measure of the amount of water in the air together with the maximum moisture present. The higher the temperature gets, the more water vapor air can contain. Oppositely, when the temperature is low, the carrying capacity of the air to carry moisture is low, too. Hence, you should not be surprised that warm regions have damp or wet air.

Humidity is an integral part of the Earth’s atmosphere; it is derived from the water vapor that lingers on the air. Water vapor occurs in the atmosphere through evaporation in major water bodies such as seas and lakes. 

You can remove humidity, as it is an existing component of the water cycle. As water evaporates, moisture in the air occurs. However, this moisture is then removed when condensation takes place. 

What Is The Healthy Indoor Humidity Level?

You wouldn’t want to keep your air too dry or too wet. Later on, we will discuss the effects of each of these situations. 

As a responsible homeowner, you would want your indoor space to be conducive to your comfort and health. It should be free from impurities and other sources of irritations. Of course, setting the proper humidity levels can help you in this aspect. 

Many have different suggestions when it comes to the healthy indoor humidity level. After all, people base their perception on their degree of comfort, and that’s not entirely wrong.

However, experts suggest that the humidity level of a home should only stay between 40% to 60%. Any lower or higher than this range and you will experience various humidity problems such as allergies and respiratory illnesses.

Fortunately, you can always protect yourself and your family from the potentially harmful effects of humidity by having a humidifier and dehumidifier. A humidifier adds moisture to the air; a humidifier reduces it. You can get either of these devices depending on your needs. 

Reasons Why You Need To Control Indoor Humidity

What Happens If The Indoor Humidity Is Too Low? 

Low humidity usually refers to the dryness of the air. It is a common occurrence during the cold season–where the temperature is quite low. Combined with the use of heating systems, it is entirely usual to experience arid air during winter. 

But just because it is normal doesn’t mean that you can just let it off the hook. Otherwise, you would experience the following things:

Dry Skin

Dry skin is the result of low humidity in the air, and the more intense the dry climate, the drier your skin will get. It’s actually the air, not the water in your skin, that keeps it from getting dry. The air’s relative humidity, which is the amount of moisture in the air compared to the maximum it can hold at a certain temperature, affects how much water your skin and hair can absorb from the air. When it is humid, it takes longer for the water that your skin puts out to evaporate, so it doesn’t evaporate as quickly as it would in low humidity.

Influenza

Flu transmits easily when the air is dry, according to several studies. Many are reluctant to believe this fact, but the link between low humidity and virus transmission is quite strong. To be on the safe side of things, you need to ensure that your indoor air is properly humid. You don’t want any virus to compromise the health of your family. 

Nose Bleeding

Low humidity can cause nose bleeding in some people. When the humidity drops, nostrils are subjected to dry air, which triggers the inflammatory response. Inflammation causes the capillaries in the nostrils to expand. This is harmless in itself, but when the air becomes too dry, those capillaries can expand too much and burst, causing nose bleeding.

Furniture Damage

If you have wooden furniture, low humidity is bad news for you. Wood is one of the most versatile and useful materials in the world. But even the most vigorous trees can be damaged by high or low humidity levels. You may not think humidity has much to do with wood, but actually, the opposite is true. All wood is made up of a matrix of wood cells, which contain cellulose. Cellulose is a strong substance, but it does need moisture to maintain its integrity. The absence of water vapor in the air reduces the rigidity of wood; over time, it would crack and get brittle. 

Stress

Many people are surprised to find that humidity levels can affect their mood: it turns out that low humidity levels are a common trigger for stress. The reason is that low humidity levels make the air feel drier than it actually is. Our body’s natural reaction to this is to signal a stress response to prepare us for an emergency. This is why some people feel very tense, anxious, or even panicked when they are in a dry climate.

What Happens If The Indoor Humidity Is Too High? 

Mold Growth

High humidity is a big concern for homeowners and building managers. When the relative humidity in the home is too high, mold growth can occur. It is estimated that high humidity is responsible for 20% of all mold complaints. Keep in mind that bacteria and molds proliferate quickly in highly humid environments. The rooms in your home with the highest humidity levels are the most likely candidates for mold growth. The highest humidity levels are usually found in the kitchen and bathroom, especially the bathroom, since it’s where we shower. 

Respiratory Illnesses

Asthma and respiratory illness are typically seasonal since they often occur during peak periods of pollen and mold growth. Still, they can also be triggered by various factors, including cigarette smoke, air pollution, and even high humidity. Surprisingly, all of these triggers can take advantage of the moist environment inside our homes, especially during humid summer months.

Increase In Dust Mites

An increased level of humidity in your home can cause the proliferation of dust mites. Dust mites are microscopic organisms that are normally found in the home. They feed on the flakes of dead skin that we all shed naturally as we go about our daily business. However, one should know that dust mites are always present in highly humid conditions, as they absorb water for their survival. Once you regulate your indoor humidity, these dust mites will no longer infest your home. 

Heat Exhaustion

When summer arrives, so are the hot, humid days. In fact, high levels of humidity can make it feel like it’s hotter than it really is, making the heat of the sun unbearable to many people. This is because the excess water in the air prevents the body from sweating, which is our internal mechanism of cooling. If the body can’t cool down, it is completely possible to suffer from heat-related conditions such as fainting and stroke. 

Ways To Control Indoor Humidity

There are a lot of things that you can do to ensure that your indoor humidity remains at safe levels. 

  • Of course, the first solution is purchasing a humidifier or dehumidifier. These devices can help you combat the inconsistencies in the relative humidity of your indoor space. They are a great addition to your home, especially if you or your family members are prone to respiratory illnesses, allergies, and other humidity-related health conditions. 
  • If you see that there is moisture gathering in any parts of your home, you should dry it right away. Afterward, determine the cause or origin of the condensation. 
  • Your windows and storm doors are efficient in reducing moisture in your space. For instance, upgrading them to double or triple-pane windows can provide insulation from the cold temperatures, preventing the cool and dry air from settling in. 
  • You may also want to open the blinds and drapes during winter. This would help warm your interior glass. It may cause a little bit of condensation, but the enhanced air circulation can compensate for that. 
  • You should work with your heating and cooling systems, too. Electric and gas furnaces curb excess humidity with the heat they release. Meanwhile, air conditioners reduce moisture because they make the air dry and cool. Using them properly can help address the fluctuating moisture levels in moisture. 
  • It is essential that you consider caulking the gaps and seams of your home. It doesn’t only prevent humid air from entering; it also makes your home energy efficient. 

Other simple but clever ways to control indoor moisture:

  • Always cover your pots while you are cooking
  • Interior doors should remain open for enhanced air circulation
  • Cover your aquariums if you have them

In Summary

The importance of controlling indoor humidity is essential for the health and welfare of your family. Being exposed to abnormal levels of humidity can bring multiple problems to your body and even to the structures of your home. 

Furthermore, you should consider buying a humidifier or dehumidifier to guarantee that you’ll be able to regulate the moisture levels of your living spaces whenever you need to. 

That’s it for now. If you have other inquiries, feel free to ask me in the comment section below.

Do Humidifiers Cause Moisture And Molds?

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Do humidifiers cause condensation and molds?

You see, a lot of people are quite hesitant to buy humidifiers because of the notion that these devices cause moisture and mold growth. Of course, nobody here wants to experience mold infestation. Similarly, you don’t want your house or building to be riddled with condensation.

Too much moisture in a given room can lead to numerous issues, such as mold growth, musty odor, and allergies. As much as possible, you don’t want any of that to happen. 

The job of a humidifier is to add moisture to an area. Given that this is the case, it is quite understandable why some people think that these humidifiers can cause problems rather than solutions. 

But fear not; this should not actually be the case. There are some things that you need to know here. 

How Excess Moisture Causes Mold Growth?

It’s no secret that moisture can cause mold growth. 

The most known way moisture can cause mold growth is through condensation. Condensation occurs when warm air meets a cool surface and releases moisture. This is a natural process that occurs both indoors and outdoors.

Usually, molds are not a problem for indoor spaces. The only exception is when there are mold spores that can get inside and manage to land on a damp or wet area. If your home has the right relative humidity, the presence of mold spores should not threaten you. But if there’s too much moisture, then it is a problem that you have to deal with. 

For as short as one day, mold spores can grow and manifest in the area. And that’s not a good thing. 

If you think that your indoor air is too damp, the device that you need is not a humidifier but a dehumidifier. The latter is specifically designed to bring down the relative humidity of wet spaces down to a more acceptable level. 

What Is Condensation Anyway?

Condensation is a process by which water vapor in the air turns into liquid water, and it can happen in a number of ways. It can occur when water vapor in the air comes into contact with cold surfaces, absorbing the heat from the surrounding area and turning it into liquid water.

Condensation can take place when warm air comes into contact with cold surfaces or when warm air is forced to move over a cold surface. 

For example, you can see condensation occur on the outside of a cold glass of water or when warm exhaled air touches a cold window. It is also possible for condensation to manifest when warm, humid air is cooled rapidly, for example, in a freezer.

Hence, if there’s sufficient or excess moisture in the air, condensation can occur. And the presence of water is what triggers mold growth.

So how do these things relate to humidifiers?

Do Humidifiers Cause Condensation And Molds?

The short answer to this question is a yes. And it is essential that we can elaborate on this matter. In this way, you will be able to use the humidifier properly without experiencing any condensation and other drawbacks. 

The function of a humidifier is to release moisture in the air to increase its humidity. According to experts, the safe range of indoor humidity should be 40% to 60%. Any higher than this, and you’ll experience a damp and wet feeling. 

When there’s too much moisture (high humidity), it manifests in the form of condensation. Usually, you can see it in the coldest spots of your home, such as the windows.

Interestingly, warm air carries more water. Therefore, you should not be surprised why it feels so damp during the summer season. Therefore, when the warm air gets in contact with any cold part or surface in your home, the air cools, and the water that it carries is “released” through condensation. 

And when there’s condensation, mold growth can also occur. 

Low temperatures mixed with excess humidity can also cause indoor condensation. You have to maintain the right humidity at various temperatures to prevent bad things from happening. 

You can refer to the table below for the recommended humidity level for given indoor/outdoor temperatures. 

 Outdoor Temperature (Fahrenheit) 
Indoor Temperature -15-10-505101520
70 degrees Fahrenheit 15%17%20%25%30%35%40%45%
75 degrees Fahrenheit 18%20%24%30%35%40%45%50%

How To Prevent Humidifiers From Causing Condensation And Mold Growth?

People buy humidifiers because they are suffering from dry air problems. Perhaps you have already considered buying one but suddenly had a second thought after realizing this matter. 

It is undeniable that humidifiers release moisture to make your environment more humid. However, if you don’t keep them in check, they can cause condensation, especially if the temperature outside goes below 10 degrees Fahrenheit. 

To prevent this from happening, you should always monitor your humidifier, especially its humidistat. You have to make sure that the humidistat is set on the ideal indoor humidity. In this way, the humidifier won’t produce too much mist in the air. Some humidifiers have automatic sensors that let them configure the moisture output based on the readings. 

For instance, if the sensors detect that your indoor humidity is below the appropriate level, they trigger the humidifier to run automatically. After reaching the desired humidity, the humidifier turns off automatically. 

Of course, you can also opt for units that offer manual humidistat. They enable you to have full control over the output of the humidifier. 

In fact, you can just maintain the relative humidity to 45%. In that way, you can deal with air dryness without experiencing condensation. 

Other Tips That Help Reduce Condensation

Condensation is a common problem in homes that lack good insulation and airtight construction. In the winter, it’s the extra moisture in the air from warm, moist breath, cooking, and bathing that creates a humid environment in your home. But, in the summer, it’s the outdoor humidity that finds its way into your home that causes condensation.

Below are some tips to help you reduce the condensation in your home, which, in turn, would prevent mold growth from happening:

  • Use the exhaust fans in your bathrooms, laundry, and kitchen
  • Vent clothes dryers and gas burners outside
  • Make sure that the ventilating louvers in your crawl spaces or attic are large and open
  • Utilize fireplace dampers so that moisture-filled air would escape
  • Open the entry points of your house for a few minutes every day

In Summary

While it is true that humidifiers can cause condensation and mold growth, it is essential to note that you have all the means to prevent it. Most humidifiers are designed to operate smartly, thanks to their humidistats. But if the humidifier has no sensors, it is up to you to control its output or operational time. 

Using a hygrometer can help you monitor the relative humidity of your house or building. It is an inexpensive device, but it can aid you in ensuring that your home is properly humid. 

That’s it for now. If you have inquiries, don’t hesitate to ask me in the comment section below.

What Is The Ideal Humidity Level For Homes?

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What is the ideal humidity level for homes? How can you make sure that the current relative humidity in your space will not affect your health and the structure of your property? 

Humidity, or the presence of moisture in the air, occurs naturally. But at the same time, this doesn’t mean that it is alright that you will be exposed to extremely low or high humidity levels. Again, it can cause unwarranted effects on your well-being and the structural integrity of your house or building. 

It’s essential that we can determine the correct humidity in our spaces. In this way, we will be able to use tools like dehumidifiers and humidifiers appropriately.

What Is The Average Humidity Levels In America Per Season?

The humidity levels in the United States do vary by state. I do suggest that you check your local weather stations for this particular information. After all, humidity changes every day. 

In Summer

When the season is hot, the United States’ average humidity is roughly 80% in the morning. This one is recorded between 4 AM to 6 AM, local standard time. Meanwhile, the average afternoon humidity is 48%. Afternoon humidity is typically recorded between 3 PM to 5 PM, local standard time, where the temperature is high, and the relative humidity is at the lowest point. 

In Winter

During winter, where the temperatures are at the lowest point, the average humidity in the United States is 76.7% in the morning. When the evening comes, the average humidity drops to 58.6%. Based on the explanation above, these figures were recorded from 4 AM to 6 AM (for the morning humidity) and 3 PM to 5 PM (for the afternoon humidity). 

In Spring

Spring is one of the finest seasons in the United States, which starts March 1 and ends on May 31, based on the meteorological calendar. In this particular season, the average morning humidity is 76.3%, while the average afternoon humidity is 48.4%.

In Fall

In the United States, fall starts around September 23 and will end on December 21. The average humidity during this season is 80.8% in the morning and 52.8% in the afternoon.

Annually

Based on estimates, the average annual humidity in the United States is 78.7% in the morning and 52.3% in the afternoon.

Let me emphasize that these figures are just the average. I do recommend that you check the local weather and meteorological stations to see the average humidity on a daily basis. 

Alternatively, you can use a hygrometer so that you can measure the humidity in your area by yourself. For me, this is the most efficient way of determining relative humidity. After all, your only concern is mostly your own abode. 

What Is The Ideal Humidity Level For Homes?

Humidity refers to the amount of water vapor in the air. The moisture is indicated by ‘relative humidity’, which is the percentage of water vapor in saturated air at a particular temperature, relative to a maximum amount when all the air is fully saturated at that temperature.

The recommended humidity for homes should be between 45% to 60%. 

Now, based on the average humidity levels in the United States, you can say that the morning relative humidity for most states is higher than the recommended level. It is at this time where you need a dehumidifier running. 

But of course, if the relative humidity is low, you need to keep a humidifier to raise it to the appropriate levels. 

A hygrometer can help you determine if your indoor relative humidity is at safe levels. However, there are humidifiers and dehumidifiers that are equipped with this function. 

In Basements

Depending on where you live, the ideal humidity of basements can differ, and the humidity levels can also vary throughout the year. For example, in warmer areas, basements tend to be humid during the summer. A dehumidifier is extremely handy in these conditions. In colder regions, basements tend to be humid during the winter; hence, installing a humidifier is beneficial.

When the humidity in your home is too high, mold can begin to grow. Furthermore, it can cause some of its parts to warp and deteriorate. Keep in mind that water can weaken the structure and composition of various materials, especially wood. Once this happens, expensive repairs can take place. 

Keep in mind that your basement may be a part of the supporting pillars of your home, as it is located on the bottom part. If it gets damaged, there’s a good chance that several parts of your home will get affected, too. Hence, this area has to be correctly humid. Furthermore, if there’s high traffic in your basement, you wouldn’t want it to be riddled with molds and bacteria that are birthed from abnormal humidity levels. 

You have to put a humidifier and dehumidifier in your basement to combat the changes in the humidity levels. 

In Bedrooms

For most people, the ideal humidity of bedrooms is between 40% and 60%. However, if you suffer from asthma or allergies, you can benefit from a lower level of humidity.  This is because mold, bacteria, viruses, and dust mites thrive in a highly humid environment. Lowering your humidity level will also help you save on your energy bill, as a high humidity level will cause your cooling system to run more often.

In Garages

According to a study, the ideal humidity of garages is 40%. To keep any of your garage items lasting as long as they can, it is essential to have the right humidity. Having too much or too little moisture can cause wood to warp and rust metal tools. If the humidity is too low, the air may be too dry to prevent mold or mildew from spreading. If it is too high, then it can still result from similar structural damages. 

In Bathrooms

As with most of the air in our homes, the humidity in our bathrooms is constantly changing, often because of the activities that take place there. For instance, when you shower, hot water evaporates into the air, causing humidity levels to rise. Meanwhile, typical household activities like taking a bath or doing laundry can cause humidity levels to fall below the ideal range. Heat is one of the biggest contributors to rising humidity levels, so if your bathroom doesn’t have a vent, you might want to consider installing one to help prevent mold growth.

But similar to the ideal humidity levels in your living spaces, your bedroom should still maintain a relative humidity of 45% to 60%.

The Importance Of Correct Relative Humidity In Your Home?

Humidity is a measure of how much water vapor is in the air. The greater the humidity level, the more water vapor is in the air. High humidity makes it hard for the air to shed heat. On the other hand, low humidity makes it harder for the body to maintain its normal temperature (hotter), as the air cannot hold as much moisture as it can at high humidity levels.

But first, let me discuss what relative humidity is. In this way, you will be able to understand when the appropriate situation where you can say that the humidity is either high or low. 

What Is Relative Humidity

In the simplest terms, relative humidity is the amount of water vapor in the air compared to the maximum amount of water vapor that air can hold at a specific temperature. This critical measurement allows us to gauge the likelihood of precipitation: When relative humidity is high, the air is already saturated with water, so there is little chance of rain; when it is low, the air is “dry,” and we are more likely to see rain.

The relative humidity is directly influenced by temperature. Hence, if the temperature is consistent, it is likely that the relative humidity is consistent, too. 

Keep in mind that if the temperature is high, the air becomes dry (low humidity). When the temperature is low, the air becomes wet (high humidity). When it comes to pressure, the relationship is directly proportional. Low pressure means low relative humidity. High pressure indicates high relative humidity. 

Too High Humidity

High humidity can be a big factor in making you feel uncomfortable. High humidity leads to an increased risk of allergies and asthma attacks, which can make your day miserable. It can make it difficult to sleep at night due to excessive sweating, and it can also make daily tasks more difficult. 

High humidity can cause condensation and dampness in your home or office, leading to mold and mildew growth. It can also make it more difficult to cook because moisture and steam collect on the inside of your oven.

Too Low Humidity

When the humidity is too low, your home loses a lot of its comfort, as the air feels drier, and your skin and nasal passages get dry and irritated. Low humidity isn’t just uncomfortable, it’s unhealthy. Breathing dry air causes your body to work harder to moisturize the air, and it can lead to asthma attacks. 

Low humidity leads to static electricity that makes your hair stand on end and your clothes stick to you. It causes wood floors, windows, and walls to feel rough and uncomfortable to touch. Furthermore, low levels of humidity can also damage your home and belongings by warping and cracking wood and other not-so-durable structures.

Check out this chart for the ideal relative humidity in your home:

Courtesy: Aprilaire.com

How To Control Humidity In Home?

At this point, it is essential that you know the methods that let you control the humidity in your home. Specifically, you should be able to lower or increase the humidity, depending on the needs. 

HVAC Systems

One of the practical methods in addressing humidity problems in your area is by having an HVAC system. For instance, controlling the humidity in a room can be done through the use of an air conditioner. This unit removes water vapor from the room in the process of cooling the room, so even if you don’t hear it running, it’s still working to remove humidity.

However, there are several issues that you need to be aware of when it comes to HVAC systems are their capability to deal with moisture. For instance, if your AC is too big for your space, it will not be able to control both temperature and humidity. This is because these air conditioners’ compressor switches on and off frequently, preventing them from running for extensive periods.

Another problem is that these air conditioners can only run at a single speed. In short, it can just be on or off. Because of this limitation, it will never have enough force to remove excess humidity in your space. 

To deal with the changing humidity levels in your home, I suggest that you get a humidifier and dehumidifier. Both of these devices are designed to tackle specific problems in humidity. 

For Increasing Humidity: Humidifiers

Humidifiers are considered a must-have appliance for most homes and offices. Specifically, a humidifier is a device used to increase the air’s humidity or moisture in your home, especially during the cold winter months when the air from your furnace can be extremely dry. 

Most people use humidifiers in their homes to prevent and alleviate symptoms of dry skin, chapped lips, and other common wintertime ailments. Humidifiers can also help prevent dry, itchy eyes, nosebleeds, and other wintertime ailments. 

But how do humidifiers work? The operation of a humidifier is simple and straightforward. When the device is turned on, it uses a fan, pump, filter, and water basin to move water through the device and into your home’s air. Sometimes, humidifiers are treated with fragrant oils to add an alluring and relaxing smell to the air.

For Lowering Humidity: Dehumidifiers

Dehumidifiers are great for removing moisture from the air in areas where dampness can be harmful to your health. It can be used in a crawl space to prevent or cure mold or mildew growth, in a basement, or any part of a home where the air is too wet. 

In contrast to a humidifier, a dehumidifier works by drawing in air through a filter. As air passes over the filter, water particles stick to the filter. The moisture then collects in a reservoir where it can be removed.

It is highly recommended that your dehumidifier should have a big tank to hold as much water as it can. In this way, you don’t need to drain it frequently. Alternatively, you can also look for dehumidifiers that have an automatic draining system. By inserting a hose on its drain plug, the water it collected will be ejected automatically. It prevents the dehumidifier’s tank from becoming full.

How To Know If There Are Moisture Problems In Your Home?

If you are experiencing problems with mold, wood rot, or just an unpleasant musty odor, chances are your home may be too humid.  The first step to taking care of the problem is knowing whether or not you have a humidity problem in your home.  

Here are some of the signs that your home is experiencing humidity problems. 

Smelly Odor

You know that there’s a humidity problem in the house if it emits a pungent and musty smell. It is an indicator that the humidity is too high, causing the air to get wet. Of course, the odor is generated by mold and bacterial growth. If you let the odor stay there, you will be exposed to a myriad of respiratory hazards. 

You should check if there are water or plumbing damages on your property. These problems might be hidden, such as in the crawl space or the insulation embedded behind your walls. If you can, hire a professional contractor to diagnose the root cause of the smelly odor. 

Dark Spots And Patches

One of the evident signs of moisture problems in a house or building is the presence of dark patches in the ceilings and walls. This is a common symptom seen on old structures and properties that haven’t been taken care of for a long time. 

These dark patches can also be seen after storms and heavy rains. This is an indicator that there’s room damage. It is also possible that leaking pipes in your plumbing system cause the problem. 

Pests

When there is water, there is life. This concept does not only apply to humans and animals. Even for pests like rodents, cockroaches, and termites, water is an important amenity. 

The increasing number of pests in your home could mean that your area is rich in water. If you feel that the air is musty and damp while being pestered by these creatures, there’s a good chance that you have a moisture problem!

Warped Wood And Furniture

In the case of wood, high humidity can lead to mildew, mold, and rot, especially if you don’t have proper ventilation. When wood is exposed to high humidity, it absorbs more moisture and expands, and when the wood dries out, the wood returns to its normal size. 

The same thing happens to your guitar when you leave it in a room with high humidity. The wood, and therefore the neck, warps to accommodate the moisture, and then when the humidity stabilizes, the wood returns to its original size. But of course, you wouldn’t want this to happen, right?

Moisture can be the bane of wood furniture. Regular exposure to humidity can cause wood to crack, warp, and split. When water gets trapped within a wood product, the wood itself swells, and this swelling can cause the wood to break apart as it dries. 

Months and months of exposure to moisture can cause mold and mildew to infect the wood, which can shorten the life of the wood tremendously and lead to staining. Moisture is also one of the leading causes of furniture squeaks and groans, as well as doors that stick and don’t latch. The amount of time that a piece of wood furniture is exposed to moisture ultimately determines how susceptible the wood is to warping, splitting, and cracking. 

Use A Hygrometer To Determine Level Of Your Home

If you are uncertain if you have humidity problems, use a hygrometer. Basically, this device reads the relative humidity in an entire space. If the reading goes higher or lower than 40% to 60%, then there’s a need for you to address the matter right away!

Conclusion

Learning the ideal humidity level of homes is essential to ensure that you avoid any moisture-related problems. Again, let me emphasize that abnormal levels of moisture can actually affect your health and impact your space’s structural integrity. 

With the right knowledge and tools, you will be able to deal with various humidity problems that you can encounter!

I hope that you find this guide useful. If you have other related inquiries, feel free to ask me in the comment section below!

What Is Humidity And Why You Need To Care About It?

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What is humidity? Why is this particular concept something that you need to care about?

Honestly, humidity is a term that gets thrown around a lot, but most people don’t really know what it means. However, you should at least understand its fundamentals, especially if you care about your health and your house or property’s structural integrity.

Allow me to explain this concept more thoroughly below.

What Is Humidity? 

One should know that you don’t need to become a science geek to understand what humidity is. Well, I am not saying that being interested in science is a lame thing; in fact, it is the opposite. Instead, what I am trying to point here is that you don’t need to have a profound scientific background before you can grasp this term. 

Again, let me emphasize that many are quite oblivious about humidity as a concept. After all, it’s a measurement of the amount of water vapor in the air, and to most people, water vapor is invisible. But it’s an important measurement, one that can tell you a lot about the current weather and even what’s going to happen in your city over the next few days.

Specifically, humidity is the existence of water vapor in the air. Hence, you can say that when the humidity is high, there’s a lot of water vapor on it. When the humidity is low, its water vapor content is low, too.

Aside from humidity, you have to understand relative humidity, as well. Relative humidity is derived from humidity, but it holds a more specific meaning. Technically, The relative humidity of air is a measure of how “damp” it feels. It is also a term used to describe the amount of water vapor in the air compared to the maximum amount of water vapor the air can hold at a certain temperature. The maximum amount of water vapor that the air can hold at a certain temperature is called saturation. (The relative humidity of air is the ratio of actual vapor pressure to saturation vapor pressure. In other words, it is the fraction of water vapor in the air.) 

The thing that your weather reporter is reporting during the morning is relative humidity and not just generic humidity.

Where Does Humidity Come From?

Humidity is not an abnormal phenomenon. It occurs naturally in the atmosphere since water vapor is naturally existing, too. 

Again, humidity exists because of water vapor. And at this point, we have to know where water vapor comes from. 

Water vapor gets in the atmosphere via evaporation, specifically from different water bodies such as oceans, rivers, and lakes. 

Furthermore, water vapor has to be considered as an essential aspect of the water cycle. Every time evaporation occurs, water vapor is generated; it is only removed by condensation. 

If the temperature is high, it means the air can absorb more water vapor. Hence, in areas where the climate is warm, humidity is high. If the climate is cold, the air appears to be dry, which suggests that the percentage of water vapor is small. 

For instance, at 86 degrees Fahrenheit, saturated air may contain 1 ounce of water per cubic meter. But when the temperature drops to 40 degrees Fahrenheit, the air may only contain 0.1 ounces of water per cubic meter. 

This particular nuance is the very reason why it is called relative humidity. 

What Causes Humidity In Houses?

Obviously, there’s no seas or lakes in your house. However, this doesn’t mean that humidity is no longer an applicable phenomenon in your humble abode.

In fact, it is an issue that many people have been trying to deal with for many years already. While it is true that humidity is a naturally occurring phenomenon, this doesn’t mean that it doesn’t have any harsh effects on your health and properties. 

However, let me clarify that humidity gets bad if it gets too high or too low. Later, I will discuss the ideal humidity range where you can breathe the air comfortably. In the meantime, let me elaborate on the common causes of humidity.

Numerous factors can influence the humidity levels in your home. The actual design of your house and the materials that are used in its construction can cause changes in the humidity levels. The existence of insulations and retarders may become a factor, too. 

Needless to say, the climate and the current temperature in your area have a significant impact on the humidity of your house. You can say that the average home humidity in Florida is higher than in Minnesota or Alaska. 

Also, you need to take into account the HVAC systems in your home. For example, if your house is equipped with an extremely large AC unit, it will not help absorb the excess moisture in your space. You see, the coils in these air conditioners act as dehumidifiers. If they can run long enough, they will be able to reduce room humidity to proper levels. But it will never happen with large AC units, as they can cool your area fast. Hence, it will be able to run for extended periods, which is essential to guarantee that it can absorb the moisture in the air. 

What’s The Ideal Humidity For Homes? How To Measure It?

The ideal humidity for homes is generally around 40% to 60%, with an optimal comfort range of 30% to 50%. I suggest that you stay on the 45% to 65% to ensure that you are experiencing the most suitable air possible. 

However, you should mind your comfort levels, too. You see, each of us has our own standards of “comfortable.” I can be comfortable at 50% relative humidity, and you can only feel such a thing if the humidity reaches 40%. That’s completely alright, though. The only thing that you need to do is to make the proper adjustments. 

Also, always consider your health, as well as the well-being of your family. Allergy sufferers require the air to be a little bit dry. In this way, molds, fungi, and other allergy triggers will not be able to persist. 

Use a hygrometer to ascertain the humidity in your space. It is a device that can provide accurate humidity readings in your home.

What Happens If The Humidity Is Too Low?

When humidity levels are too low, a home can become very dry and uncomfortable. Not only does this make people feel stuffy and irritable, but it can also cause health problems. You may start to experience problems breathing, your skin will become drier, and you may even get nosebleeds! 

Low humidity can also impact your body temperature. It can make you feel cold, even if the thermostat in your house is cranked to the highest setting. And since the humidity is pretty high, it is easy for bacteria and viruses to thrive. 

Furthermore, low humidity is a common cause of structural damages. It can make furnishings, and wood floors warp, shrink, and crack. It can also cause wallpapers to peel or loosen. Behind the damaged wallpaper, molds can grow quickly. 

What Happens If The Humidity Is Too High?

Humidity is high if the climate is hot. Hence, it is pretty common for excess moisture to take place during the summer. However, you may still suffer from humidity in any part of the year. 

Areas with high humidity may suffer from various symptoms. It can be seen in the unusual condensation of the windows. The presence of stains and wet patches in the ceilings and walls. Furthermore, extremely damp air can generate a musty odor. It can cause your bathroom to be moldy. Keep in mind that high levels of humidity are the primary cause of mildew and mold growth in buildings, which can cause a variety of health concerns such as allergies and asthma. 

Combining high humidity with high temperatures can cause troublesome problems, such as heat stroke. It can also compromise the structural integrity of your home. It can contribute to the quick deterioration of materials, which would result in pest infestation.

How To Control Humidity In Your Home?

At this point, it is essential that you can control your indoor humidity. Basically, you need to achieve the ideal or comfortable range for you and your family. 

To do this, one must invest in either humidifiers or dehumidifiers–depending on your needs. In fact, you can get both of these devices at the same time. 

On a cold, dry winter day, what could be better than stepping into a room that’s warm and cozy with the humidity level set just right? That’s what a humidifier is for. But how does it work?  Essentially, a humidifier helps to make the air in your home or office more bearable by adding moisture to it. It’s a good idea to run a humidifier on dry days, especially in the winter, to help keep your family and pets comfortable and safe, and prevent health complications.

Meanwhile, a dehumidifier is a device that removes moisture from the air to improve comfort in a room or building. Simply put, it keeps the air in your home from feeling stuffy and uncomfortable. It is an excellent choice for people who suffer from allergies, asthma, or breathing problems. Plus, it provides protection against rust, mold, and other moisture-related damage.

Conclusion

It is vital that you are aware of the role of humidity in the overall comfort and structure of your home. Once the moisture is set right, you will be able to avoid health complications and structural problems in your space. I recommend that you shouldn’t ignore the effects of unregulated humidity. Address the matter right away!

I hope that you find this guide useful. For other inquiries, ask me in the comment section below.

How To Dehumidify A Room?

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It is essential that you know how to dehumidify a room. After all, damp air can cause a myriad of health problems. It is also a culprit of furniture and structural damages, especially if there’s prolonged exposure. 

Warm areas typically suffer from high humidity. The higher the temperature, the higher the capacity of the air to carry water vapor. It is not a surprising thing that during summer, the air feels damp. But in the winter, it is somewhat dry. 

Effects Of High Humidity

When the humidity is higher than 65%, it is already above the standard comfort levels. 

You know that sticky, thick feeling you get when the air is heavy with humidity? It can make you uncomfortable and can make it hard to sleep. But there are other health effects of high humidity that you may not even be aware of. Excess moisture in the air can also allow mold and bacteria to grow in your home or on your property. High humidity can also increase the likelihood of respiratory problems such as asthma and allergies.

Of course, it causes damage to your house or building. It can impact the structural integrity of various materials, such as wood. It can warp hard floors, crack guitars, and even shrink some of your furniture. In fact, high humidity can lead to mold, mildew, and other air quality problems and can seriously affect your home’s indoor air quality.

What Causes High Humidity In Houses?

There are multiple reasons why your house is suffering from high humidity problems. 

The first culprit is the climate. If it is hot, the capacity of air to carry water vapor increases. The hotter it is, the more humid it gets. 

High humidity can be a problem in a number of situations, but especially in the summer months, as high temperatures can cause the air to become more saturated with water. This causes the air to become denser and harder to breathe.

The following can also contribute to the sudden increase in your home’s humidity:

  • Showering – If you have ever taken a shower, you know that the water comes out in steam.  Water vapor is a gas, and when you put that gas into the air, it increases how much water is in the air.  
  • Boiling water – When water boils, it turns into steam.  As steam, it rises into the air.  If it’s humid outside, the steam will collide with water droplets in the air. Instead of passing through them, the moisture will condense into water droplets.  That’s why it’s humid after you boil water on the stove. 
  • Gas heaters – Gas heaters can increase humidity in your home. These devices use water to produce hot water, so the moisture in the air is converted into water vapor. It can make your home feel a bit more humid, particularly if you have an older gas heater, which is less efficient.
  • Poor ventilation – Too many people think that ventilation is a cure-all for high humidity. This is not true.  In fact, ventilation increases humidity.  When you open a window to your house, you are letting ambient air inside. This air is saturated with water vapor from the outside air.  
  • Renovations – Does home renovations increase humidity? The answer to that question depends on where you live and the type of renovations you do.  No matter what, they are going to have effects on the humidity in your home. 

When you are thinking about doing renovations, you should think about its effects on your home’s humidity levels. It is essential to make sure that your house is properly dehumidified, as this will help you avoid mold and mildew. If you are thinking about renovations, it is a good time to buy a dehumidifier.

How To Know If Your Indoor Air Has High Humidity?

The first thing that you need to do is to ensure that your area has humidity issues. At this point, it would better if you use a hygrometer to measure the relative humidity of your space. With this device, you will be able to get accurate readings. 

If the hygrometer tells you that the humidity in your space is too high or too low, then you must implement some measures to regulate it. 

By the way, the recommended humidity levels in indoor spaces are around 45% to 60%. Some say that it could go as low as 35%, but it is not a suitable thing to consider, especially if your home has individuals with respiratory illnesses. 

Why Are Basements Prone To High Humidity?

Basements tend to be very humid places for a variety of reasons, but the most common causes are high amounts of both water and human traffic in a small area. Water that enters your basement from the outside can be absorbed into the ground, but a concrete basement floor can’t absorb water, so the water remains in the basement.

When you combine this with the fact that, in the average household, there are about 50 people in a basement (according to the U.S. Census Bureau), it becomes pretty apparent why basements are so humid.

Basements are underground and relatively closed-off areas. Hence, they are naturally cool and humid year-round. People living in the Midwestern United States, especially in areas that see a lot of rain, should be especially concerned about high basement humidity. 

However, the following things can also cause an abnormal increase in the humidity of your basement: 

  • Water leakages
  • Flaws in landscaping
  • Damaged or misplaced gutters
  • Cracked concretes
  • Poor ventilation

How To Dehumidify A Room

We all want to be comfortable while we are home, and unfortunately, the summer heat can get overwhelming. Luckily, you can dehumidify your room to make you feel more comfortable.

The Best Solution: Dehumidifier

A dehumidifier is a device that removes excess moisture from the air, and it’s beneficial in many homes and offices. A dehumidifier is an appliance designed for removing moisture from the air in the process of dehumidification, using a refrigeration cycle. Still, the process is fairly similar to that of an air conditioner, which uses a refrigerant to cool the air. The water is captured in a collection tray or reservoir and can be emptied manually or automatically.

There are three main types of dehumidifiers: desiccant, refrigerant, and passive. Desiccant dehumidifiers work by drying the air to a certain humidity level. Oftentimes, this is accomplished by pulling air through a desiccant material. Refrigerant dehumidifiers work by cooling the air to a specific humidity level. Passive dehumidifiers work by heating the air to a certain humidity level.

Other Methods Of Removing Excess Humidity In A Room

  • Improve ventilation – Ventilation is the process of changing or replacing air in any space to control temperature and ensure good indoor air quality (IAQ). Ventilation can be achieved through natural (through openings in a building’s structure) or mechanical processes. Opening a window in your house will allow fresh air in, helping to equalize the air pressure inside and outside. 
  • Take out your indoor plants – Plants generate moisture. And if you have a lot of them in your house, it is natural that they can significantly add to the dampness in the air. 
  • Repair water leakages – You can reduce the humidity in your home by fixing any water leaks. Water leaks can be a major cause of poor indoor air quality and can be challenging to detect. One of the most common places for a water leak to occur is in the toilet tank. The tank is a closed system, and water evaporates into the air. If too much water evaporates, the tank becomes empty, and the float valve will not refill the tank. This results in a water leak and can cause mold growth and high humidity levels.
  • Don’t shower for too long – It’s not news that taking longer showers uses more water and electricity, but did you know taking shorter showers also helps reduce humidity? The truth is, when you take a more extended time in the shower, it increases the humidity of your home. The water can turn into water vapor, which is then absorbed by the air. The more you use water, the damper your air gets.
  • Get solar air heaters – Solar air heaters are a great way to lower your environmental impact because they use the power of the sun to heat air and can reduce your energy bill. They also help to combat humidity levels and can be a big help in reducing colds and allergies. If you are looking for a way to lower humidity in your home, but don’t want to invest in an expensive AC system, then a solar air heater is an eco-friendly way to do it.

In a nutshell, a solar air heating system includes a solar collector, a solar storage tank, and a fan. As the sun’s rays hit the collector, the solar collector absorbs and stores the heat. The solar storage tank is attached to the solar collector. The fan blows air through the solar storage tank and into the room. It takes the hot air from the solar storage tank and mixes it with the cooler air in the room.